Rent relief for Sunway Malls’ non-essential retailers

PETALING JAYA: Sunway Malls has granted a 14-day rent-free period to affected non-essential retailers in response to the movement control order (MCO).

In a statement, Sunway Malls said it had weighed the matter following the Prime Minister’s announcement on the MCO that takes effect from March 18 to 31 (now extended to April 14), especially on how the order will impact the non-essential trade retailers due to the mandatory suspension of trading.

“While Sunway Malls supports the government’s decision on the movement control order as the national top priority to rein in the Covid-19 outbreak and protect the safety of the community, the mall group also believes that the long-term sustainability of its business partners is also an important factor,” it said.

“While essential supplies and services such as supermarket, pharmacy, convenience store and F&B (delivery and takeaway) remain open to continue serving the community, non-essential trade – fashion, home furnishing, entertainment, leisure outlets, etc – are mandated to cease trading during the 14-day period.

“For non-essential trade retailers, the current situation puts a tremendous strain on revenue and cash flow.